Joanne Worley: The Rowdy Comedienne Who Made Us Laugh
JoAnne Worley born on September 6, 1937, is a versatile American entertainer, excelling in various fields such as television, movies, theater, game shows, talk shows, advertisements, and animated productions.
She is known for her talents as an actress, comedian, and singer.
Jo Anne Worley is a one-of-a-kind performer who has entertained audiences for over six decades with her rubber-faced expressions, tunnel-mouthed voice, and trademark bouffant black hair.
JoAnne’s profile summary
| DETAILS | INFO |
|---|---|
| Alternative Names | Roger & Jo Anne |
| Height | 5′ 8″ (1.73 m) |
| Born | September 6, 1937 |
| Place of Birth | Lowell, Indiana, USA |
| Spouse | Roger Perry (May 11, 1975 – 2000, divorced) |
| Other Works | TV commercial: Old Navy Stores |
JoAnne’s professional journey
After completing two years of studies at Midwestern, Worley relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her education at Los Angeles City College and the Pasadena Playhouse.
Her early break in the entertainment industry came with her first musical role in the production of “Wonderful Town.”
In 1961, she achieved a significant breakthrough when she appeared in the musical revue “Billy Barnes People” in Los Angeles, which later moved to Broadway, although it ran for only six performances.
Nevertheless, the New York Times reviewer praised her, saying, “Jo Anne Worley has a down-to-earth style that suggests she could be a boisterous comedienne.”
In 1964, she was chosen as a stand-in for the original Broadway production of “Hello, Dolly!”
A year later, Worley established her own nightclub act in Greenwich Village, where she caught the attention of Merv Griffin.
Impressed by her talents, Griffin featured her as one of his main guest stars on “The Merv Griffin Show,” where she made approximately 40 appearances.
In 1966, she also appeared Off-Broadway in “The Mad Show,” a musical revue inspired by Mad Magazine.
Her association with Griffin led to her discovery by George Schlatter, who subsequently cast her in the iconic show “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.”
In 1970, Worley departed from “Laugh-In” to explore other projects and made guest appearances on various television series, including “Love, American Style,”
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” “The Andy Williams Show,” “Adam-12,” “Emergency.
Murder, She Wrote,” “The Middle,” and numerous game shows such as “Super Password.
Hollywood Squares,” and various versions of “Pyramid.”
Throughout her career, she continued to work in movies, television series, and theatrical productions, both original and revivals.
Worley also gained recognition for her voice work in cartoons, animated films, and video games, including notable roles in “Nutcracker Fantasy Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast “A Goofy Movie “Beauty and the Beast.
Belle’s Magical World, and the voice of the Wardrobe in the video game “Kingdom Hearts.
She maintained her association with Disney, making cameo appearances in several Disney Channel sitcoms such as “Kim Possible,” where she played Bonnie Rockwaller’s mother, as well as in “Wizards of Waverly Place” and “Jessie.”
Worley’s talent extended to regional theater, including performances at the Melody Top Theater in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she appeared in productions like “Gypsy:
A Musical Fable” (1984), “Annie Get Your Gun” (1982), “Hello Dolly!” (1980), “Anything Goes” (1978), and “Once Upon a Mattress” (1974).
She also graced the Welk Dinner Theater in San Diego, California, with her presence in “Same Time, Next Year” in 1985, and “Call Me Madam” at the California Music Theatre in Pasadena, California.
Nunsense” at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada, California, in 1991.
In 1989, Worley returned to Broadway for a role in “Prince of Central Park,” although the show was canceled after just four performances.
She took on the role of the Wicked Witch of the West in a 1999 musical production of “The Wizard of Oz,” directed and adapted by Robert Johanson, alongside Mickey Rooney as the titular character.
This production had a limited run at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, California, and at the Theater at Madison Square Garden, with Worley also participating in the limited US tour.
she portrayed Mrs. Tottendale in the Broadway musical “The Drowsy Chaperone” at the Marquis.
Theatre, reprising the role at The Cape Playhouse in 2015 from June to July.
JoAnne’s life story or the account of JoAnne’s life
This tall and attractive comedienne, known for her rubber-faced expressions and distinctive bouffant black hair, is a unique talent in the entertainment world.
She’s far from being a shy or reserved performer; she wholeheartedly embraces the spotlight and, in turn, it adores her.
Jo Anne Worley, much like some of her colleagues from “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” (1967), skyrocketed to cult stardom in the late 1960s.
However, unlike others, she managed to sustain her vibrant popularity well beyond her initial burst of fame.
Over the years, she has skillfully carved out a niche for herself in nightclubs, musical theater productions, game shows, talk shows, commercials, and even animated shows.
Even today, after more than four decades, Jo Anne’s infectious laughter or a distinctive gesture poking her cheek instantly identifies her.
Jo Anne, with her brash and indefatigable personality, was born on September 6, 1937, in Lowell, Indiana.
She is the third of five siblings and has always stood out from the crowd due to her unmistakably loud voice, whether she’s singing or not.
Her comedic talents were evident early on when she was crowned the “school comedienne” during her high school years.
After graduating in 1955, she headed east to chase her dreams.
She began her journey with the Pickwick Players and subsequently earned a two-year dramatic scholarship to Midwestern State University.
Later, she continued her training at Los Angeles City College and the Pasadena Playhouse. It didn’t take long for her to make her professional debut in the production of “Wonderful Town.”
In 1961, she gained attention for her role in the popular Los Angeles musical revue “Billy Barnes People,” a show that briefly propelled her to Broadway.
JoAnne Worley’s net worth
According to Celebrity Net Worth, JoAnne Worley’s net worth stands at $2 million.
Her wealth predominantly stems from her highly successful and lengthy career as an actress, comedian, and singer.
Worley’s versatility is evident through her appearances in numerous films, including notable works such as “A Goofy Movie 2” “Beauty and the Beast 3” and “The Shaggy D.A.”
She has also graced both Broadway and off-Broadway stages, captivating audiences with performances in productions like “Hello, Dolly!,” “The Mad Show,” and “Wicked.”
In addition, Worley has contributed her distinctive voice to various animated series and video games, including “Kim Possible,” “The Emperor’s New School,” and “Kingdom Hearts II.”
Does JoAnne have any offspring?
Jo Anne Worley did not become a parent during her marriage to Roger Perry from 1975 to 2000; their union concluded without any children.
Jo Anne Worley is a prominent American actress, comedian, and singer, renowned for her contributions to the comedy-variety show, Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
Additionally, she has established herself as a voice artist, lending her distinctive voice to various animated films and series like Beauty and the Beast, Wreck-It Ralph, and The Lion King.
At present, she maintains her active involvement in the entertainment industry, despite being 87 years old.
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